Morild was formed in 2007 in Trondheim Norway. They’re basically a melodic progressive rock band that I feel are on par with a majority of the newer bands as well as some classic ones. The band consists of John Anders Troset (Vocals).Nils Larsen (Bass).Alexander Salgado Rodriguez (drums), Odd-Roar Bakken (guitar and keyboards), Mari Haug Lund (flute), and guest musician, Hans Kristoffersen (guitar).
In 2010, Morild released their debut album, Time To Rest, which consists of two discs filled with nearly 100 minutes of music. The idea of releasing a debut of this size is an ambitious feat. Once you’re engulfed in the music, it really doesn’t feel long, in fact it smoothly goes from start of the first track on disc 1 to the final track on disc 2. There’s absolutely no filler on this album, for those skeptical.
The album is full of epics, on both discs, ranging from 11 to 15 minutes. Some of my favorites of the album are “All I Wanted (The Whale Song)“, based on a true story of a whale that ran aground in the river. A perfect opening track that sets the mood for the rest of the musical journey on Time To Rest.
Another favorite is the title track that’s just under 6 minutes. It shows the band can do epic instrumentation in a small time slot. Then there’s the instrumental opener for the second disc called “Apus Apus” which captures the band’s essence (so to speak) and showing they can flex their instrumental side.
The 3 part suite, “The Slave Ship” ends the album with epic proportions. Each part holds their on separately as well as a whole. This is the song I feel best shows the band’s signature style. It’s very mystical sounding that captures the listener.
In closing, if you’re looking for a new band that has strong ties to the past without being called retro, then Morild’s Time To Rest is the band/album for you. I feel this is the start of a wonderful career for this band. So this gets a high recommendation for both a great debut as well as being one of my favorites of 2010.
Reviewed by Ron Fuchs on July 30th, 2010
